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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked garlic bread paired with hearty meatballs. The Savory Herbed Garlic Bread Meatball Bake is a perfect embodiment of this comforting combination, bringing together the rich flavors of tender meatballs and the irresistible crunch of garlic-infused bread in one delightful casserole. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that evokes the coziness of family dinners and the joy of shared gatherings.

Herbed Garlic Bread Meatball Bake

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Savory Herbed Garlic Bread Meatball Bake. This delightful dish combines tender meatballs made from a perfect blend of ground beef and pork, enveloped in a rich marinara sauce, and topped with crispy garlic bread. With its inviting aroma and satisfying textures, this casserole is ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together for a hearty meal.
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef

1/2 pound ground pork

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Garlic Bread:

1 loaf French or Italian bread

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (a blend of thyme, oregano, and rosemary)

Salt to taste

For the Bake:

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's hot enough to cook the meatballs and bread evenly.

    Make the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well integrated, being careful not to overwork the mixture. Form the mixture into meatballs about the size of golf balls.

      Bake the Meatballs: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the meatballs on the sheet with some space in between to allow for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked (check with a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F/71°C).

        Prepare the Garlic Bread: While the meatballs are baking, get your garlic bread ready. Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise to create two long halves. In a separate small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt until they form a smooth spread. Generously slather this mixture over the cut sides of the bread.

          Bake the Garlic Bread: Place the prepared garlic bread on a baking sheet, cut-side up, and bake in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy to your liking.

            Assemble the Bake: Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and set them aside for assembly. In a large, deep baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. Gently place the meatballs on top of the sauce, then pour any remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs. Finally, generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of everything.

              Final Bake: Place the assembled dish back in the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and starts to turn a lovely golden brown.

                Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Slice the garlic bread into individual servings and plate alongside the meatball bake. For an added touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

                    Optional Presentation Tips: Consider serving the bake in a rustic-style dish and place a small bowl of extra marinara on the table for dipping the garlic bread. Enjoy!